Description: This is a rare and gorgeous example of a California “bear flag”, ca 1940-1950 era, measuring 5-foot by 7-foot (an unusually large size for a state banner) with attractive wear from extended use. This flag was purchased in 2011 from renowned antique collector and dealer, Jeff R. Bridgman in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania for $3,000. 19th century state flags fall between scarce and extraordinarily rare in the antiques marketplace. This “bear flag” is an unusually large size for a state banner. The flag probably started life measuring eight feet in length but wind shear has since removed seven inches or better from the binding at the fly end. This particular example is visually interesting due to its golden-brown oxidation and attractive wear from obvious extended use in its day. The flag is made entirely of cotton bunting, sewn in three panels, the top two of these were combined to create the white field, while the lower was dyed red to create the red bar. The imagery is printed in four colors. There is a cotton leader along the hoist with two brass grommets. Condition: There is significant fabric loss at the hoist end, accompanied by minor soiling throughout. **IMPORTANT**Buyers should be aware that the value here is in no small part due to the professional mounting. Collectors often pay a conservationist like Bridgman $1,000-$1,500 just to mount a flag like this, in a way that preserves it, protects it from losing shape, and displays it in such a way that it is ready for safe and easy framing (though it does not need to be framed and I always hung is as is). Bridgman’s mounting process is described here: Mounting: The flag was hand-stitched to 100-percent silk organza for support. It was then hand-sewn to a background of 100-percent cotton, black in color, which was washed to reduce the excess dye. An acid-free agent was added to the wash to further set the dye and the fabric was heat treated for the same purpose. The mount has been placed over a wooden strainer frame with a supportive face of coroplast. Shipping: Please note that this listing is for a professionally mounted antique flag and will not be removed from mounting for shipping (unless full price is paid and buyer requests it). The cost of shipping from Los Angeles, California is significant and this cost falls entirely on the buyer. One will need a quote for crating it first, then shipping of what will end up being roughly a 6-foot-high by 8-foot-wide by 6-8 inch-thick crate. The mounted flag itself weighs just 18 pounds. Seller is happy to oversee and handle the shipping process so long as it is paid for by the purchaser. Local pickup in L.A. is also an option. See the attached letter from Jeff R. Bridgman American Antiques for verification of authenticity and value. Interested parties can also contact Bridgman for further verification of purchase (contact in attached letter). However, Bridgman will likely not be able to speak to its value or condition, as he usually insists on in-person assessments (he has not seen this flag for 13 years). I’m happy to answer any questions to the best of my ability!
Price: 2600 USD
Location: Topanga, California
End Time: 2024-09-24T16:50:26.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Year: ca 1940-1950
Signed: No
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
